Liberal call to Gago: keep ferry or resign
Jun 19, 2012
Hon David Ridgway MLC
Leader of the Opposition in the Legislative Council
Shadow Minister for Urban Development & Planning
Shadow Minister for Economic Development
Shadow Minister for Tourism
Liberal call to Gago: keep ferry or resign
Shadow Tourism Minister David Ridgway has added his voice to the growing chorus demanding that Labor rescind its decision to close the Cadell ferry.
“The ferry doesn’t cost,” Mr Ridgway said.
“It more than pays for itself by promoting tourism, stimulating economic activity, growing regional investment and providing an essential service to the people of Cadell and beyond.”
Mr Ridgway urged Tourism Minister Gago to lobby Premier Jay Weatherill, Treasurer Snelling and Transport Minister Conlon and insist the ferry stay open.
“We know Ms Gago doesn’t care about her portfolio, but in this instance she has a duty to act,” Mr Ridgway said.
“Tourism is a $5 billion industry in South Australia. A good government should be encouraging tourism, not killing it.
“The Riverland has already had to handle the impact of drought, water cuts and higher water charges, low export prices and a changing economy.
“Does Labor have no heart? Does it have no compassion? Does it have no common sense?
“I say this to Minister Gago: keep this ferry open, or resign your commission as Tourism Minister.”